Waitress Salary in Ann Arbor, MI
Waitresses in Ann Arbor, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $18.31 per hour, translating to about $732.40 per week, $3,173.73 per month, and $38,084.80 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Ann Arbor is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the food service and hospitality industries in this region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Ann Arbor, MI?
The salary of a Waitress in Ann Arbor varies based on experience and establishment, here’s an overview of typical earnings by experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.48 | $499.20 | $2,161.60 | $25,920.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.31 | $732.40 | $3,173.73 | $38,084.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.80 | $1,232.00 | $5,326.67 | $63,984.00 |
Do Waitresses in Ann Arbor Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Ann Arbor typically earn an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their total income depending on the establishment and hours worked.
Waitress Salary in Ann Arbor vs. National Average
Nationally, the average hourly pay for Waitresses is about $18.31, matching precisely the average in Ann Arbor at $18.31 per hour. The yearly national average is also aligned at $38,084.80.
This shows that the Waitress salary in Ann Arbor is competitive with nationwide averages, reflecting a stable position within the hospitality sector across the US.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ann Arbor for Waitresses
Nearby neighborhoods offer these approximate hourly rates for Waitresses:
- Downtown Ann Arbor: $20.00 per hour
- Kerrytown: $19.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Ann Arbor, the highest paying nearby area, can offer better earnings compared to other districts due to higher-end establishments and greater customer volume.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Ann Arbor?
Several factors affect how much a Waitress earns in Ann Arbor:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Waitresses with strong customer service and multitasking abilities often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues generally offer better pay and higher tipping potential than casual or fast-food places.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may attract higher pay due to demand and expected tips.
- Location within Ann Arbor: Areas like Downtown and Kerrytown have higher earning averages due to foot traffic and affluent clientele.
- Certifications: Food safety and responsible alcohol service certifications may improve a Waitress's employability and wage prospects.
How To Become a Waitress in Ann Arbor
Starting a career as a Waitress in Ann Arbor includes several key steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Understand the fundamentals of hospitality through programs like the Washtenaw Community College Culinary Arts Program.
- Consider Education in Hospitality: The University of Michigan Hospitality Management Program offers comprehensive knowledge valuable for career advancement.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required.
- Learn Responsible Alcohol Service: The TIPS Certification helps with serving protocols and is valued by employers.
- Build Experience: Entry-level roles in local restaurants, cafes, or catering can provide hands-on training.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Ann Arbor
Prominent local establishments frequently hiring Waitresses include:
- The Gandy Dancer
- Zingerman's Roadhouse
- The Chop House
- Mani Osteria & Bar
- Frita Batidos
Establishments That Waitresses in Ann Arbor Work At
Waitresses in Ann Arbor commonly find employment in diverse settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide a steady flow of customers and often hourly pay with tipping.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Tend to have higher volume but lower tips, impacting overall earnings.
- Fine Dining: Typically offers higher wages and substantial tip income due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Pubs: Allow Waitresses to gain tips from alcohol service with possibilities for flexible shifts.
Different types of establishments influence salary and tips. Fine dining and busy downtown areas usually offer the best earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ann Arbor for Waitresses
Those interested in similar careers to Waitressing may consider related hospitality roles:
Similar positions include Server, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server—all sharing customer interaction and food service duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Ann Arbor
Waitresses in Ann Arbor need to be aware of regional labor regulations and tax responsibilities:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Michigan for detailed information on employment laws and workers' rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official site provides federal labor law resources relevant for all workers, including Waitresses.